EE extends 4G with launch in rural Cumbria

EE is bringing its 4G network to the Northern Fells in Cumbria. The mobile operator said that residents would now 4G download speeds of around 8Mbps to 12Mbps.

The operator launched a customer trial of its 4G network in the area last May. The launch means that tourists and home works will no longer suffer from a dearth of high-speed connectivity.

The service should give users 4G speeds of up to 12Mbps with some customers reaching speeds of up to 20Mbps. Around 2,000 residents should benefit from the launch of the 4G service, which launches this summer.

Read Recombu Digital’s guide to 4G BroadbandEE said the Cumbria launch is particularly significant as it demonstrates how its existing 4G network has the ability to “offer the reach, capacity and high speeds necessary to deliver high speed broadband to rural homes and businesses”.

Olaf Swantee, CEO of EE said, “Using our dedication to innovation and engineering excellence, we are overcoming the challenges of delivering rural connectivity to launch a 4G mobile broadband service in Cumbria.”

“This is yet another big step in advancing digital communications in the UK. We’re offering one of the fastest mobile networks in the world, and are pioneering how to make superfast broadband available to homes and businesses that currently have little or no connectivity.”

EE said the service would cover 84 per cent of the population across the Northern Fells by this summer, an area otherwise bereft of high-speed connectivity.

Rory Stewart, MP for Penrith and Borders, added: “This is a major step forward for my constituents. Superfast broadband is making a massive difference to the way that people live their lives and do business.”

The 4G service launches with packages for businesses and consumers starting from £15.99 per month.